What defines the inferior leads in an EKG?

What defines the inferior leads in an EKG?

• A. Leads I and aVL
• B. Leads II, III, and aVF
• C. Leads aVR and aVL
• D. Leads V4, V5, and V6

Answer: (B)

The inferior leads in an EKG are defined as Leads II, III, and aVF. These leads are positioned to monitor electrical activity specifically from the inferior portion of the heart, which corresponds to the right coronary artery's territory in most individuals.

Leads II and III are placed on the lower extremities, while aVF is oriented towards the foot. The electrical signals picked up from these leads reflect changes or abnormalities occurring in the inferior wall of the left ventricle. This information is critical for diagnosing conditions such as inferior wall myocardial infarctions, where blood flow to this region of the heart is compromised.

Understanding the anatomy and orientation of these leads is essential for interpreting EKGs properly, especially when evaluating for specific cardiac conditions.